First Book Blog

Stories of impact, the latest research, best practices, curated book lists, and more.

Half-A-Million Books, Waiting for New Homes

Posted in: Archive

First Book is in Los Angeles this week, and we have half-a-million brand-new books waiting to be distributed to schools and programs serving kids in need in southern California and across the country. As you can see, 500,000 books is a LOT of books. And a lot of work. But... Read more

Over 2,000 Titles on the First Book Marketplace

Posted in: Archive

We’re excited to announce that we now have over 2,000 titles available on the First Book Marketplace! Our award-winning online site carries books for children of all ages, from board books to college prep guides, from The Very Hungry Caterpillar to To Kill A Mockingbird. The First Book Marketplace is... Read more

First Book Friday: Summer Literacy Skills

Posted in: Archive

Today’s guest blog post is from Susanne Sparks, an engagement manager at First Book. She’s passionate about leveling the playing field so that all children can learn, grow, and thrive. As a child, I was a voracious reader. My mother eventually decided that since I read books so quickly, it was... Read more

2010 Cheerios Spoonfuls of Stories Winner

Posted in: Archive

Today’s guest blog post comes from Ron Rauss,  an author, illustrator, and published photographer.  Ron lives in Northern Virginia with his wife and son. He was announced as the 2010 Cheerios Spoonfuls of Stories New Author Contest Grand Prize winner in March 2011 and will have his first picture book “Can I... Read more

Happy Birthday, America!

Posted in: Archive

Happy Birthday, America! We hope all of our friends and supporters have a safe and happy holiday, and make time to read a good book. Image by Wojtek Kozak. Read more

Summer Bliss & Books

Posted in: Archive

First Book loves the summer! We especially love all of the opportunities to read a great book in great weather. First Book believes that every child should experience the joy of summer reading, but we recognize that there are children who do not have access to books to read in... Read more

First Book Friday: Summer Learning Day

Posted in: Archive

In celebration of National Summer Learning Day, First Book was lucky enough to bring 150,000 brand-new books to the National Mall to stuff into backpacks going to children in need all over the country. Seeing the  the hundreds of volunteers that came out to support our efforts was a moving and... Read more

Chris Draft and Summer Reading

Posted in: Archive

Veteran NFL Linebacker Chris Draft has been one of First Book’s biggest supporters. His energy, enthusiasm and passion are infectious, and we’re grateful that his organization, The Chris Draft Family Foundation, has partnered with First Book to promote childhood literacy and get more books to kids. Chris made this video... Read more